Food grade glycerin, also known as vegetable glycerin or glycerol, is a clear, odorless, viscous liquid that is miscible with water and alcohol [1]. It is a safe and versatile ingredient commonly used in the food and beverage industry, cosmetics, and personal care products, and even some pharmaceutical applications.
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Food and Beverage Applications:
- Sweetener (low calorie): While it has a slightly sweet taste, it has fewer calories than sugar.
- Humectant: Glycerin helps retain moisture in food products, keeping them soft and chewy. It is commonly found in baked goods, candies, pet food, and alcoholic beverages.
- Thickener and Texturizer: It can add thickness and improve the overall texture of food products.
- Solvent: Glycerin can act as a solvent to dissolve flavorings and other ingredients.
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Cosmetics and Personal Care Products:
- Humectant: Similar to its function in food, glycerin helps retain moisture in the skin and hair, promoting a smoother and softer feel.
- Lubricant: Glycerin can improve the smoothness and spreadability of lotions, creams, and other topical products.
- Solvent: It can help dissolve other ingredients in cosmetic formulations.
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Pharmaceutical Applications:
- Laxative: Glycerin suppositories are a common over-the-counter remedy for constipation.
- Other Uses: It can also be used as a topical emollient or lubricant in some medications.
